Review: The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

Pages: 485
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Genre: YA Post-Apocalyptic Paranormal

GOODREADS

In a future world, Vampires reign. Humans are blood cattle. And one girl will search for the key to save humanity.
Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten.
Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of them. The vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself is attacked—and given the ultimate choice. Die… or become one of the monsters.
Faced with her own mortality, Allie becomes what she despises most. To survive, she must learn the rules of being immortal, including the most important: go long enough without human blood, and you will go mad.
Then Allie is forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls. There she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend—a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike.
But it isn't easy to pass for human. Especially not around Zeke, who might see past the monster inside her. And Allie soon must decide what—and who—is worth dying for.

Okay, wow. This book. This book.

If you've read the Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa, then you already know what a wonderfully talented writer she is. But, you might look at The Immortal Rules and say to yourself, "Vampires? Oh, they're so over done. I'll just still to the fey."

I'm here to tell you that vampires are not overdone. At least not Kagawa's vampires.

I really don't know how I'm going to explain the love I bear this novel to you guys, but I'll try. From the moment I started reading The Immortal Rules, I wasn't in my world anymore. I swear I was transported to a post apocalyptic world, where a virus has run rampant through the human population, and now the vampires are in control. People live in crumbling cities, and even though the world as we know it has ended, there are still two things that you can't avoid--death, and taxes. Except instead of money, you pay your taxes in blood. If you miss a payment, they'll come and collect.

Okay, is that freaky, or what? I really wasn't expecting a book this powerful, or dark, from Julie! There's no sugar coating anything-- people are dying, being ripped apart by vicious rabid vampires that are basically a science experiment gone wrong. I loved the grittiness of it. There was this layer of darkness spanning the whole novel, because as I was reading, I knew that this wasn't going to be a happily ever after fairy tale ending. And even though I was biting my nails in anticipation and anxiety, I loved that aspect of it.

There was a part in the middle that lagged. It was rapid fire, all action, BAM BAM BAM! And then Allie just fell into a sort of routine for a while. The story was still interesting, because there was this tension building that obviously has to snap at some point. Allie has to blend in with these humans, some that she comes to care for deeply, but she's faced with the dilemma of where to get her next blood fix from. Could she feed from these people that have taken her in so quickly?

I really liked Allie as a main character. She was logical, and made some really difficult decisions. When faced with certain death and given an option, she chose what most everyone would have chosen, which was to rise again as a vampire. But she had grown up hating the vampires her whole life, so it was really interesting to see her grow as a person, dealing with the fact that she was what she hated so much. The concept of drinking blood disgusted her, but what choice did she have? And even though she tried to remain as human as possible, the simple fact of the matter was that she wasn't human anymore, and pretending to be only got her into more trouble.

There are some other really fantastic characters in this novel that I really want to read more about, such as Allie's vampire sire, Kanin. I actually developed a bit of a crush on him! I'm sad that we didn't have much time with him, but I'm certain that he'll make a bigger appearance in the future books. And, how can I possibly forget Zeke? Oh, I loooooved Zeke! Even living in a world where hope is a foolish notion, he holds onto it. When others are thinking only of survival, he's making sure that everyone in his group is taken care of to the best of his ability. I immediately fell for him, and I want him and Allie to be together somehow. The romance wasn't overpowering, and it definitely took a back seat to the story, which I liked because Zeke and Allie didn't let their feelings for each other get in the way of their responsibilities to the others who depended on them.

Another thing I really loved were the vampires. They're really not anything different than your typical Dracula-esque vampire. They have many of the same weaknesses--sunlight, wooden stakes, and fire--but Julie Kagawa did put her own original touch to her vamps. I don't really even know how to describe it, it's something that you'll have to read for yourself.

Overall, I give The Immortal Rules 5 out of 5 stars. This book is awesome! You need to read it!!

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Want to read the book for yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Hardcover: $11.55

Kindle: $10.19

Book Depository (Free shipping worldwide!)

Hardcover: $14.24

Barnes and Noble

Hardcover: $11.55

Nook: $10.19

Author Interview: Chelsea Cameron

Chelsea Cameron

Blog • Twitter • Facebook

Hey, I'm Chelsea, a YA writer from Maine. Lover of things random and ridiculous, Jane Austen/Charlotte and Emily Bronte Fangirl, Red Velvet cake enthusiast, obsessive tea drinker, former cheerleader and world's worst video gamer.I also can't tell my left from my right, hence the name of this blog.

1. What inspires you? Art? Movies? Music? Other books?

Completely random things inspire me. A lot of my book ideas come while I'm driving, almost asleep, or in the shower. The idea for Nocturnal came from an ad for Desperate Housewives, if you can believe that. They showed a hand plucking an apple off a tree. And then I saw Peter, one of the characters in Nocturnal. And that was it.

Songs inspire me a lot after I've started writing, or sometimes when I'm searching for where to go with a story. Taylor Swift, Linkin' Park, Neon Trees, Radiohead, The Civil Wars... I could go on and on. Music is a huge part of my writing. Other books inspire me with envy :)


2. What is your writing process like?

It's nuts. It makes complete sense to me, but probably wouldn't work for anyone else. When it comes to my writing environment, I love noise and chaos. Ideally, I'd have the television on something mindless, like Seinfeld re-runs or infomercials. Then I get Pandora on my iPod and crank it up. I can't have silence, I have to have something to tune out. Which makes no sense, but that's how I operate.

I write my first drafts fast. My record is two weeks, but I'd love to pull a Kiersten White and write a book in nine days, but so far, no dice. After I've finished that, I let it sit for at least two weeks. Then I do what I call a 'nuclear' pass. Killing everything I don't like, putting in more details, fleshing out characters. This takes a while. Then I usually go through at least three drafts before I print it out and read it out loud. I also scramble the pages up and edit that way. Once that's all done, I do one final pass. It's taken me several years to figure this process out and what works for me. I'm always changing and evolving.


3. Which of your characters is your favorite? Why?

Oh dear, that's like picking favorite children. I don't have kids, but my characters feel like my kids. I love Ava, because she's so sarcastic and I'm so comfortable with her voice. We'd be friends if she existed outside of my head. Peter is interesting, because his voice is so different. It's dark and deep and poetic. But I love getting lost in it.

Can I just say they're all my favorite?


4. If you inserted yourself into your novel, describe your character.

Oooo, good question. I'd probably be the one in the back saying, "you probably shouldn't do that." I've always been the cautious one when it comes to doing crazy things. I'd be the funny but boring friend who always has your back.


5. Name two YA characters that you love so much you wish you’d written them yourself.

DAEMON BLACK. DAEMON BLACK. DAEMON BLACK. OMG, I love him so much. For those who don't know, he's the love/hate interest in Jennifer Armentrout's Obsidian. He's a jerk, but a super hot one.

And for the second? Albus Dumbledore.


6. If you could have one super power, what would it be? Why?

The ability to blink and get from place to place. I've always wanted to travel, but just haven't been able to. I'd love to be able to blink and be in the Czech Republic or London or Bali. And if you forgot something, you could just blink yourself home.


7. What’s your biggest goal to achieve in your career as an author?

I would love to make someone feel about my book the way other authors have made me feel. That almost depressed feeling you have when an amazing book is over and you close it. I want people to want to re-read my books because they love them so much. That would be totally worth it :)


8. What is your next project?

I just released the sequel to Nocturnal, Nightmare. Next up is Whisper, a non-ghosty ghost story. It's more of a romance than anything. I'm hoping to have that out at the end of May. I plan to release at least six books this year, so stay tuned!

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Thank you for joining me on my blog today Chelsea! :) It was great interviewing you!

{Blog Tour + Giveaway}: Author Guest Post- Heather Hildenbrand

Whisper by Heather Hildenbrand

Genre: Actually, not entirely sure
Publisher: Accendo Press

The Cherokee believe when a person dies, their soul is reborn. Life is repeated. An endless cycle of lessons to be learned, love to be found, destiny to be fulfilled. For the past six months, in every flower, every bird, I’ve imagined my parents, relieved of their human forms.

Now, after five months at the Skye View Wellness Center, it was summer. A time for parties and friends, but that’s the last thing I want to do. So when my best friend Erin convinces me to attend a bonfire at Eagle Point, I can’t handle the crowd full of sympathetic stares or drunken class clowns who would use my tragedy as a way into my heart – or my pants. The solitude of the woods offers an escape, until I stumble upon a boy, unconscious and bleeding, his pockets stuffed not with identification but with poetry illustrating the beauty of dying. I’ve seen enough death. I will not leave this boy’s side.

Even after he wakes, when the only thing he can remember are visions of events that haven’t happened yet…

Animal lover – Fact. I do love animals, although it’s probably not on the level of Whisper’s passion. My sister, though, was a lot like that. She wanted to be a vet when she grew up and actually worked as a vet tech for a few years before the injuries got to be too much. You get attacked a lot when you’re trying to give a crabby cat an IV! I know they look cute, but they’re mean when they’re scared!

#rawr

Actually, when my sis got the rough draft for Whisper and began reading (my sis is one of my BEST beta readers) she called me and was like “ummm, there are a LOT of similarities from our childhood in here! Even me and the vet thing!” Yeah, sis, I know. #onpurposedoll

GIVEAWAY!

If you want to win an ebook of Whisper, leave a comment saying what your favorite animal is. Remember to put your email! 

Review: The Secret of Spruce Knoll by Heather McCorkle

The Secret of Spruce Knoll by Heather McCorkle

Pages: 338
Publisher: Compass Press
Genre: YA Fantasy/Paranormal

Following the tragic death of her parents, Eren Donovan moves to Spruce Knoll to live with an aunt she’s never met. Little does Eren know the entire town of Spruce Knoll is filled with “channelers”—a magical group of people who immigrated to the small Colorado town when they were driven out of their own lands.

Channelers are tied to the fate of the world. As the world slowly dies, so do they—and they alone have the power to stop the destruction of Earth. Soon, Eren learns she not only lives among them, but she is one. When she meets local boy Aiden, his charm convinces her that being a channeler may not be all bad though.

As Eren and Aiden’s relationship develops, so too does a mystery in Spruce Knoll. The town holds many secrets—and many dangers. It soon becomes apparent that the untimely death of Eren’s parents was no accident and that her life might be in danger too. Only time will tell if Eren can embrace her unwanted power and protect the only family she has left.

Wow, The Secret of Spruce Knoll honestly blew me away! There is just so much to love about this novel. In fact, I don't think there was anything that I didn't like, that's how good it was.

Let's just start out with the main character, Eren. She was very level headed, which I liked because a lot of girls in YA seem to lose it once things get crazy. Even though she had to deal with the pain of her parents' death, she still made the best of her new living arrangements with the aunt she had never met. In fact, I absolutely loved Eren's family! Her aunt, grandfather, uncle, and cousin were such great characters, even if some were only there for a few scenes. I really hope to see more of them in future books! It's not often that families play a big part in YA novels, so it was really nice to see that in here.

And the romance! Mmmm, Aiden is certainly very sexy. He's sweet and lovable, but also strong and very protective of Eren. The two of them make a fantastic couple, and even though there was a bit of insta-love, I can overlook it because they worked so well together.

I also loved the concept of Channelers! It's something like a witch, but not exactly, and it's extremely unique in YA. I'm really interested to learn more about the Channeler heritage/mythology, because it's so interesting.

Overall, I give The Secret of Spruce Knoll 5 stars! A definite must read!

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Want to read the book yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Kindle: $4.99 

Hardcover: $19.95

Paperback: $12.99

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $ 4.99

Hardcover: $ 19.95

Paperback: $ 14.95

YA Boys I Love {with lots of gifs} (2)

I've decided to change this feature up a bit, and instead of featuring tons of boys in one, I'm going to devote  one post for each lovable YA boy. That way they get their fair share and don't have to share the spotlight. :)

Today's Sexy YA Boy is.....

Tucker Avery from Unearthly!

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

Please wait a moment while I swoon.

Holy sweet tea trays and blueberry muffins, that boy is HOT. I'm actually angry with myself for not reading Unearthly sooner! It's actually funny, because when I first started Unearthly, I was team Christian all the way. But, then, Tucker became the sweetest, sexiest man ever, and I just couldn't resist his southern charm!

And I do have a soft spot for nice southern gentlemen.

Oh, yummy.

If I were to cast Tucker in a hypothetical Unearthly movie, I think my pick would be Lucas Till. I mean, come on, look at that boy! He's like Tucker incarnated!

He comes with a cowboy hat and everything!

You're welcome.

This is actually how I imagined Tucker in my mind while I was reading.

So, if by some cosmic miracle, Tucker Avery is reading this, I just have one thing to say...

Review: She Smells the Dead by EJ Stevens

She Smells the Dead by EJ Stevens

Pages: 165
Publisher: Sacred Oaks Press
Genre: YA Paranormal
First in series

It's the beginning of senior year and Yuki's psychic awareness of ghostly spirits is threatening to ruin her life. Her ability to sense spirits of the dead isn't glamorous like on TV. SHE SMELLS THE DEAD. Yuki is being visited in her dreams and suspects that her friend Calvin is involved in something strange. Will Yuki be able to save the spirits and herself?

She Smells the Dead by EJ Stevens was a quick, enjoyable read. It wasn't amazing, but I liked it. I guess I just wasn't really impressed with any of the characters or the plot in general. The ending felt like the middle of the story to me, and there could have been so much more! I do have the second novella in the series, so I'll be reading it to see what happens.

I did like the main character Yuki, and her friends Calvin and Emma. (Calvin becomes a bit more than a friend later on.) Yuki was cute, with her goth outfits and quirky attitude. She's been smelling the dead for a while now, so she's used to it. By the way, I love the concept of smelling the dead. It's an interesting new take on the whole psychic schtick. Calvin and Yuki's relationship was cute, and I loved their interaction together. I'd really like to see their relationship grow in the future books.

Plot-wise, as I said before, I felt like the book ended just when the plot started rolling. It was relatively short, only about 80 something pages on my Nook, so I flew through reading it. Once I came to the last page, I felt like the story should have continued, so I was disappointed.

I do like EJ Stevens's writing style, and just from this I know I'll be a fan of her work. She Smells the Dead was a good book, I just felt it could have been better. I give it 3.5 stars, bordering on 4. I'll absolutely be reading the second book, though.

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Want to read the book for yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Kindle: $2.99

Paperback: $9.99

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $2.99

Paperback: $9.99

TBR Showcase (1)

I've seen a few bloggers do something like this, and it looks kind of fun, so I decided to do my own spin on it!

TBR showcase is a feature in which I take 4 or 5 books off of my to be read pile and, well, showcase them here on the blog. Then you guys can comment on if you've read these books and what you thought of them, and maybe you'll help me bump these books up to the top of my TBR!

This week's books are...

Books:
Fair Coin by E.C. Meyers
Haven by Kristi Cook
Supernaturally by Kiersten White
Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Have you read any of these books? Which one should I read next?
Let me know in the comments!

Review: False Covenant by Ari Marmell

False Covenant by Ari Marmell

Pages: 250
Publisher: PYR
Genre: YA High Fantasy
#2 in the Widdershins Adventure series
GOODREADS

A creature of the other world, an unnatural entity bent on chaos and carnage, has come to stalk the nighttime streets of the Galicien city of Davillon. There’s never a good time for murder and panic, but for a community already in the midst of its own inner turmoil, this couldn’t possibly have come at a worse one.

Not for Davillon, and not for a young thief who calls herself Widdershins.

It’s been over half a year since the brutal murder of Archbishop Wil­liam de Laurent during his pilgrimage to Davillon. And in all that time, Widdershins has truly tried her best. She has tried to take care of Genevieve’s tavern and tried to make a semihonest living in a city slowly stagnating under the weight of an angry and disapproving Church. She has tried to keep out of trouble, away from the attentions of the Davillon Guard and above the secrets and schemes of the city’s new bishop.

But she’s in way over her head, with no idea which way to turn. The Guard doesn’t trust her. The Church doesn’t trust her. Her own Thieves’ Guild doesn’t trust her.

Too bad for everyone, then, that she and her personal god, Olgun, may be their only real weapon against a new evil like nothing the city has ever seen.

After reading Thief's Covenant, the first book in this series (my review), and absolutely loving it, I had very high hopes for False Covenant. I was already a loyal fan to the series, even having only read one book, but False Covenant changed my status from "loyal fan" to "die-hard, I need every book Ari Marmell has ever written, obsessed-fan-girl."

Continuing with his witty writing and already rock solid fantasy world, Ari Marmell created what has to be the perfect sequel. All of my favorite characters--Widdershins, Julien, Renard, and even Olgun-- grew exponentially. From the first page, there's intrigue and mystery, and a whole lot of sneaking around where Widdershins is concerned. That's one of the things I love, that Shins is never sitting still, never slowing down. There's always something that needs to be done, some problem to solve, or some aristocrat to rob. I think the best way for me to express how I felt when I was reading False Covenant is through this gif:

It's a major page turner! Literally, my eyes were glued to the pages, and there wasn't a single thing that could tear me away. I even sat at my kitchen table eating dinner while reading. I got some weird looks from my family, but it was totally worth it!

There were some really great changes in this book, character-wise. In the first book, there were slight promises of romance, but nothing actually happened. But in this one, things happen. And I loved it! The romance wasn't overpowering at all, or even extremely prominent in the story, but it was there, and it was sweet. Of course, it just made the ending that much more painful.... but, I digress. The same old characters are still as lovable as ever, such as the sneaky and witty Renard. There are some new characters introduced that I'd like to get to know more of, so I'm eager to read the third book and see if things go where I think they will. And what can I say about Widdershins? Her and Olgun are still the most amazing non-romantic couple ever. I love their interactions together, even if Olgun never actually talks. Plus, Widdershins is still such a badass. There need to be more female protagonists like her in YA! If you mess with her or someone she cares for, she will beat you down, much like this:

And there's a new, and much creepier antagonist in this book! Just reading about him gave me goosebumps. It amazed me how Ari Marmell managed to give even the bad guy a really interesting and dynamic personality, instead of just making him "the evil dude." I actually really enjoyed reading the scenes with him.

Finally, the ending. The ending. I think it is in equal measure the best and worst part of the book. The best because it was so emotional, at least for me, that I had to put the novel down for a moment to compose myself before I kept reading. The worst because.... because.... WHY ARI MARMELL? WHY?  THERE COULD HAVE BEEN ANOTHER WAY! *sobs*

Overall, I give False Covenant a solid 5 out of 5 stars. This is a series not to be overlooked. It has everything a fan of fantasy could possibly want, and even those afraid to venture into high fantasy will love it. Anyone looking for a great story, check out the Widdershins Adventures novels.

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Want to read the book for yourself? Check out the links below!

Pre-Order False Covenant

Amazon	Barnes and Noble	Book Depository (Free shipping worldwide!)
Hardcover: $11.29	Hardcover: $11.29	Hardcover: $13.35

Want to read the book that started it all? 

 Buy Thief's Covenant

Amazon	Barnes and Noble	Book Depository (Free shipping worldwide!)
Hardcover: $12.71 Kindle: $8.19	Hardcover: $13.03 Nook: $8.39	Hardcover: $13.35

$0.99 Kindle Books (4)

Books can get pretty pricey, which is why it's always exciting to find great books that are priced relatively low. And how much lower does it get than 99 cents?? I've come across these fantastic novels all for $0.99, so if you've been looking for something new to read, check out the books below!




I haven't read any of these yet, but I will be buying these on my Kindle soon!

Review: Limerick by Kimberly Spencer

Limerick by Kimberly Spencer

Pages: 71
Publisher: Self-published
Genre: YA Urban Fantasy
Jensen hoped she’d never need Shimmerspell again, but now someone is stalking her, someone who claims to be the Lady of the Lake. To make matters worse, witches and dragons have come out to play. And Jensen must figure out how to harness her power and accept her destiny before she ends up losing everyone she loves.

I read and reviewed Shimmerspell by Kimberly Spencer awhile back, and I really enjoyed it, even though I was slightly confused with what was going on. I found that reading Limerick, which is the sequel to Shimmerspell, as well as a short story prequel entitled Lore, things got clearer and I found I understood the story better.

I actually really enjoy this series, the more I read it. There's something about Kimberly Spencer's writing style that's really relatable to a teenager. It's very quirky and funny when Jensen is talking to her friends. And the descriptions are very vivid, so you get a clear picture of what's going on.

I still have the same issue with Limerick as I did with Shimmerspell. Things happen so quickly! This book could be twice as long if only things slowed down a bit. It's almost like an action movie, where there's explosions every second (metaphorical explosions). These books are good, but they could honestly be great if they were paced slower.

I give Limerick 3.5 stars out of 5.

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Want to read the book for yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Kindle: $1.49

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $1.49

Review: Embrace by Jessica Shirvington

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington

Pages: 367
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Genre: YA Paranormal

It starts with a whisper: “It’s time for you to know who you are…”


Violet Eden dreads her seventeenth birthday. After all, it’s hard to get too excited about the day that marks the anniversary of your mother’s death. As if that wasn’t enough, disturbing dreams haunt her sleep and leave her with very real injuries. There’s a dark tattoo weaving its way up her arms that wasn’t there before.


Violet is determined to get some answers, but nothing could have prepared her for the truth. The guy she thought she could fall in love with has been keeping his identity a secret: he’s only half-human—oh, and same goes for her.


A centuries-old battle between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity has chosen its new warrior. It’s a fight Violet doesn’t want, but she lives her life by two rules: don’t run and don’t quit. When angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden…

This is a difficult book for me to review, because I have such extremely mixed feelings on it. Before I started reading it, I saw so many raving reviews about is and I figured I would love it too, but then I started reading it and the story really just did not meet my expectations.

I'll start off with what I really liked first. The angel mythology was phenomenal, I will give Jessica Shirvington that. She definitely did her research, and it shows because it was very well crafted and executed. Sometimes angels can come off as cheesy or corny, but I really like the theory behind Shirvington's angels. There is no fine line between good and bad, light or dark. The good can do bad, and the bad can certainly do good in Embrace, which made it difficult sometimes to know who was on what side. So, for the angel mythology, Embrace gets some points.

But, I had two major problems with this novel.

First, the main character Violet. I didn't like her, because she was extremely whiny. I understand, when you discover something so major and life changing about yourself, you're going to be freaked out. But she just shoved away all the people that wanted to help her, and started making some stupid decisions concerning who she trusted. I wanted to smack some sense into her quite a few times. And what really got me was towards the end. I saw what was going to happen a mile away, and she barely even knew what was going on. She did have moments where she stepped up and fought for those she loved, but those weren't enough to redeem her in my eyes. I'm don't want to spoil anything for anyone, so I'm trying to be vague here, but she just really disappointed me as a main character.

My biggest problem with this book, however, was the love triangle. At first, I was pretty intrigued by Lincoln because he was sweet and cared for Violet so passionately. And then he just became the world's biggest jerk. If you love someone, you don't treat them that way, ever. I had a really difficult time believing in his feelings toward the end, because he just ran so damn hot and cold! And there's Phoenix. Ah, Phoenix. I have to admit, I actually really liked him. He's one of those bad boys, except he's quite literally the original bad boy. (Trying hard to stay away from spoilers here, but it's difficult with Phoenix!) I knew from the moment he was first introduced that both Violet and I, as the reader, shouldn't trust him as far as we could throw him. But, he's so deliciously charming and seductive that I just couldn't resist! I don't have an actual problem with him, I have a problem with his relationship with Violet. It just happened, out of nowhere. She meets him at a coffee shop one day, and then BAM, they're hanging out. And then BAM again, and they're... dating? When did that happen? Because I sure missed it. Again, I loved him, but I just didn't believe his relationship with Violet.

Still, I want more Phoenix in my life. *sighs dreamily*

I had a few other problems, such as Violet's father, or her best friend, but those are pretty insignificant compared to the 2 others I stated above.

Overall, I give Embrace a shaky 3 stars. Mostly because of the mythology and Phoenix, those were the two redeeming qualities for me. I'll be reading the sequel, only because I really want to know what happens to him.

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Want to read it for yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Kindle: $6.99

Hardcover: $11.55

Audio Book: $13.59

Book Depository (Free Shipping Worldwide)

Paperback: $7.49

Hardcover: $13.84

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $6.99

Paperback: $9.99

Hardcover: $12.12

Review: Initiation by Imogen Rose

Initiation by Imogen Rose

Pages: 412
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: YA Paranormal

Welcome to Bonfire Academy. Set in the foothills of the alpine mountains in St.Moritz, this exclusive private school caters to a special kind of student. Enter at your own risk... but if you are human, you may not want to enter at all.

Initiation by Imogen Rose was exactly what I thought it would be, which is a good thing. I went in expected an action-packed novel about a boarding school full of magical and diverse creatures--and that's what I got.

This is part one of the prequel series to the Bonfire Chronicles books, which is already out, so in a way it's setting the scene for the future books. It's introducing you to characters who will play more important roles in the future. One of those characters in Faustine, whom the second series will focus on.

But, the main character in this book is Cordelia. She's a demon, and it's funny because she doesn't act the way I would think a demon should. She was nice, and protective of Faustine, who is a younger demon that was in her care. Just like Cordelia's boyfriend, Quinn. He was also always there for both Cordelia and Faustine, so trusting and loving, that I loved him! Which is why I'm a bit undecided as to which team I'm on, Quinn, or Jagger--Jagger is the student council president of the school and kind of a bad boy. As of right now, I'm split evenly between them, so I have to read on and see which one I like best!

There was never a boring moment for Initiation, I can tell you that. None of the characters ever got a break, because something crazy or bad always happened. I loved how, when the book ended, it tied up some loose ends, but I still had tons of burning questions that I wanted answers to.

Overall, I give Initiation 4 stars. A good read, and if you're really a fan of paranormal boarding school stories, definitely pick this one up!

-----------------------

Want to read the story yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Paperback: $9.95

Kindle: $3.99

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $3.99

Author Guest Post + {GIVEAWAY}: C.C. Hunter

C.C. Hunter

C.C. Hunter grew up in Alabama, where she caught lightning bugs, ran barefoot, and regularly rescued potential princes, in the form of Alabama bullfrogs, from her brothers. Today, she's still fascinated with lightning bugs, mostly wears shoes, but has turned her focus to rescuing mammals. She now lives in Texas with her four rescued cats, one dog, and a prince of a husband, who for the record, is so not a frog. When she's not writing, she's reading, spending time with her family, or is shooting things-with a camera, not a gun.
C.C. Hunter is a pseudonym. Her real name is Christie Craig and she also writes humorous romantic suspense romance novels for Grand Central. www.christie-craig.com
C.C. would love to hear from you. Because of deadlines, it may take her a day or so to get back with you, but she will reply. cc@cchunterbooks.com

Ten Things You’ll Learn From Taken at Dusk

1. The only thing worse than trying to help a woman with amnesia remember her name and life is trying to help a dead woman with amnesia remember hers.
2. Be careful what you wish for—you might just get it . . . and the reality will probably not be anything like the fantasy.
3. The person you think is your enemy could just turn into a friend who'll do anything to save you.
4. The scariest thing in the world isn't ghosts or rogue vampires bent on murder—it's falling in love.
5. Explaining why you have a skunk curled up in your arms to your mom and your old best friend is as easy as eating a brownie while brushing your teeth.
6. We all make mistakes, which is why it's so important to practice forgiveness.
7. The only thing worse than a pissed-off shapeshifter is a pissed-off shapeshifter in love.
8. Sometimes the earth really does have to open up and swallow you whole before you can accept the truth that's right in front of you.
9. Vampires have no sense of humor . . . especially when they get turned into a kangaroo.
10. Free will gives us choices, but even making the right choices can't change destiny . . . and learning to accept that can be the most painful lesson of all.

Kylie Galen wants the truth so badly she can taste it. The truth about who her real family is, the truth about which boy she’s meant to be with—and the truth about what her emerging powers mean. But she’s about to discover that some secrets can change your life forever…and not always for the better.
Just when she and Lucas are finally getting close, she learns that his pack has forbidden them from being together. Was it a mistake to pick him over Derek? And it’s not just romance troubling Kylie. An amnesia-stricken ghost is haunting her, delivering the frightful warning, someone lives and someone dies. As Kylie races to unravel the mystery and protect those she loves, she finally unlocks the truth about her supernatural identity, which is far different—and more astonishing—than she ever imagined.

Start at the beginning...

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Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 435
Genre: YA Paranormal

Buy it: Amazon | Book Depository

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .
Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

I haven't read a book as utterly fantastic as Unearthly in a very long time. It had been sitting on my shelf for months, untouched and unread, and one day I decided to pick it up on a whim. I'm so glad I did, because I loved it. It had everything I could possibly want from a YA book.

One of the things that I enjoyed the most was the fact that this wasn't a "girl discovers what she really is" story. Clara already knew she was part angel, so it saves us from having to go through that period of denial and anger/sorrow that the characters always go through when they find out they're not human. Instead, Clara is facing very different frustrations, as her powers are now maturing and she has to learn how to control them.

The angel mythology is very interesting in Unearthly, because it takes the concept of guardian angels and gives it more depth. In this book, all angel bloods has a purpose that they must fulfill. When the novel starts out, Clara had been receiving visions as to what her purpose would be. Her mother then moves them--her, Clara, and Clara's brother--from California to Wyoming so that Clara can get closer to her purpose... which involves a very hot guy named Christian Prescott.There's so much more to the angel mythology, but I don't want to ruin it all. That was one of the best parts of reading, getting to find out more about Clara's angel world.

The characters in this novel were definitely a force to be reckoned with because each of them came to life in their own unique way. The only thing I didn't like was that Cynthia Hand would write characters out of the story for really long periods of time, such as over summer vacation, and it felt like she did this more for convenience than anything. But, I digress. Clara, I felt, was a great female lead because she had the strength and resolve to get her purpose done. I really connected with her as a teenage girl, and getting into her head was easy. And I know I've complained about love triangles before, but honestly, the one in Unearthly is really different in the way it's set up. I mean, I saw it coming from the moment Tucker was introduced. But Cynthia Hand crafted the novel perfectly, so that Clara has a distinct reason for feeling so strongly about both Christian and Tucker, that it's really hard to not like it. Even I'm a little torn, although I am leaning more towards Tucker. (I'm not sure how long that will last, because I hear the sequel, Hallowed, has more Christian in it, and since Unearthly was basically all about Tucker, I wonder how that will affect my opinion.)

My thoughts? If you're looking for a really wonderfully written and told angel story, with lots of toe-curling romance and awesome mythology, then Unearthly is your book. 5 out of 5 stars.

Memorable Quotes

“What do you see in a guy like Christian Prescott?" he asked me that night when he dropped me off from prom. And what he was really saying then, what would have come through loud and clear if I hadn't been so blind was, why don't you see me?

***

I feel like Cinderella sitting in the middle of the road with a pumpkin and a couple of mice, while Prince Charming charges off to rescue some other chick.

***

I think he seriously believes that deflowering and angel could mean an eternity in fiery hell.

***

And then I can feel what he feels. He’s waited such a long time for this moment. He loves how I feel in his arms. He loves the smell of my hair. He loves the way I looked at him just now, flushed and wanting more from him. He loves the color of my lips and now the taste of my mouth is making his knees feel weak and he doesn’t want to seem weak in front of me.

Review: Lore by Kimberly Spencer

Lore by Kimberly Spencer

Pages: 16
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: YA Fantasy

Long before Lauren escaped to the mortal realm and fell in love with Dermott, she was simply known as Lore, the daughter of Morgen Le Fae. This short tale covers the role she played in the betrayal and murder of the Lady of the Lake.

I read and reviewed Shimmerspell, the first book in this series, a while back, and enjoyed it, but I felt it could have been longer and wanted to get more of the story. So, when I saw that Lore was a short story in between Shimmerspell and the second book in the series, I quickly snapped it up and read it. It is a short story, after all, so it didn't take a long time to read.

Lore was interesting, because it gives us some background into the world of Jensen's mother. (By the way, Jensen is the main character of the series.) This series is based off of Arthurian legend, so it's pretty unique. Arthurian legend isn't very popular in YA, and while the Shimmerspell trilogy is too fast-paced, it's still well written with a good voice. I recommend this is you want to get a feel for the series, but don't want to spend a lot of your time reading in case you don't like it.

I give this 4 stars.

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Want to read it for yourself? Check out the links below!

BUY THE BOOK

Amazon

Kindle: $0.99

Barnes and Noble

Nook: $0.99

Review: A Bite's Tale by Veronica Blade

A Bite's Tale by Veronica Blade

Publisher: Crush Publishing
Pages: 155
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance

A Cinderella who spends her nights as a wolf. A prince with a taste for blood.

Seventeen year old Cydney struggles against her werewolf nature, trying to keep everyone around her safe. No way will she risk exposing the beast at the prince’s ball, no matter how her two cousins try to persuade her. Even as she attempts to get on with her life, Cydney can’t forget the boy she loved three summers ago — or what she did to him after losing control.

Turned into a vampire to save his life, the prince refuses to live up to his royal duties. He just wants to find the girl he loved and lost...the werewolf girl who bit him. But his father, the king, commands him to attend a ball where he must choose a wife. Can he find his Cinderella before he's forced to marry another? He doesn’t even have her real name, much less a glass slipper.

After I read Veronica's first book, Something Witchy This Way Comes, and her adult novella, Blind Date Checkmate, I was dying for something else to read from her! So when I got A Bite's Tale in an email, I literally squealed out loud in delight. Even before I started reading it, I knew I would love it, because I love everything Veronica writes.

This was an absolutely adorable take on the Cinderella story, with a well-written paranormal twist, and most importantly, a romance so sweet that your toes will curl in fan-girlish delight when you read the chemistry between Cydney and Remy. Even though it's obvious how the story will end, that didn't change the fact that I spent the whole novel biting my nails in anticipation, waiting for that time when Cydney and Remy would get reunited after so long apart, and realize that they were meant to be together. Even though this was a novella, so it's relatively short compared to a regular novel, I was still so emotionally invested in A Bite's Tale!

And let me just say, I am so intensely in love with Remy. He starts out a little dorky and awkward, but when he gets older, he turns into one sexy and smooth hottie! This is how I reacted to him (total swoonage!):

Listen, if you want a really great book, just pick up A Bite's Tale. It's not expensive at all, and it's totally worth the money. READ IT! 5 out of 5 stars.

Memorable Quotes

“You’ll be my girlfriend?” he asked. Butterflies were throwing a party in my stomach. “If that’s what you want.”
“I want.” Remy grinned.

***

The heat from his body warmed me and he leaned into me, wrapping his arms around my waist. I relaxed against him and let the back of my head fall against his chest. My eyes closed as I inhaled his scent. The metallic smell didn’t bother me so much anymore. In fact, now that it belonged to Jack, I found it enticing. I wanted to snuggle closer and get a good long whiff. The drawbacks of being a werewolf — we wanted to sniff everything.

-----------------------------------

Want to read the book for yourself? Check out the links below!

Buy the Book

Amazon

Kindle: $1.99

Paperback: $6.49

Waiting on Wednesday (13)

Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Pre-Order: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…

Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarre connection. I’ve sworn him off even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But against all common sense, I’m falling for him. Hard.

Our relationship issues aren’t out biggest problem…

The Department of Defense is here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we’re linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And when a new boy shows up a school with a secret of his own, things get complicated fast. I need to choose between my own instincts and Daemon’s.

But then everything changes…

I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. Daemon’s never going to stop searching until gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me?

No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies

I don't think you even understand just how much I WANT THIS FREAKING BOOK! Obsidian was SO GOOD it rocked my socks off, and Daemon is hot enough to make any girl shove a cup of ice down her panties. LOL. But seriously, I need this book. Now.

Review: Crushed by K.C. Blake

Crushed by K.C. Blake

Pages: 260
Publisher: CreateSpace
Genre: YA Paranormal
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

The Noah sisters rule Titan High with their beauty, brains, and magical powers.

Each year they play a secret game: Crushed. The girls pick their targets carefully and blow enchanted dust into the boy’s faces, charming them, but this year Kristen makes a grave mistake. She chooses the wrong boy and almost dies that same day. Coincidence? Maybe.

But something isn’t quite right about Zach Bevian. He doesn’t behave like a boy who’s been Crushed. He goes from hot to cold, from looking at her with contempt to asking her out on a date. She doesn’t know what to think. Does he hate her or is he truly falling for her? Is he trying to kill her, or is he trying to save her?

Crushed really took me by surprise! From the description of the book, I never thought it would be as dark and deep as it was. Crushed isn't just a romance, it also has dashes of mystery and a bit of a thriller feel towards the end. K.C. Blake's writing style was simple, yet very evoking with just the proper amount of description. This book really impressed me!

I really loved the whole concept of the game that the Noah sisters played. When the book started out, it seemed like it was going to just be about how Kristen charms Zach, but he actually falls in love with her despite the magic. It had much deeper plots to it, involving Zach's sister. That's what I think the description of this book is missing: that dark feel to it.

Crushed explores some interesting themes as well, like the bond between siblings, and how, sometimes love just isn't enough to save someone who doesn't want to be saved. Honestly, if you're a fan of some steamy romance, and an interesting paranormal plot with a thrilling twist, then I would definitely recommend Crushed! 5 out of 5 stars.

Cover Reveal: Single Handed by Veronica Blade

To quote Veronica on Facebook: "Hot off the press, my new cover, courtesy of Kerosene Rose (she ROCKS!!). This story so short (part of a series of 3) it's being called a micro trilogy."

I love this cover! It's absolutely adorable!! And I'm a huge fan of all Veronica's books, so I'm just dying for more from her. What do you guys think about it?

Review: Emotionally Charged by Selina Fenech

Emotionally Charged by Selina Fenech

Pages: 125
Publisher: Fairies and Fantasy Pty Ltd
Genre: YA Paranormal

Buy It: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Livvy always dreamed of the day when a rich, handsome hero would appear and whisk her away from her mundane life. She never thought she would be the one doing the saving.

Reading the emotions of people around her is easy for Livvy. When an earthquake strikes her city, a supernaturally attractive group of rescuers show her that her power goes beyond that. She’s now one of them. Special. But the dream life she’s been swept into seems too easy, and soon turns into a nightmare.

I enjoyed Emotionally Charged, for the most part, but I feel that it wasn't long enough This could have definitely been a full length novel instead of a novella. It had a really interested concept--Livvy could not only read other's emotions, but they basically fueled her and gave her some above average powers.

When it started off, I wasn't particularly pulled to Livvy, because I felt like she was making some weird choices, so I just read the story as a bystander to see what she would do. Then things started happening, some pretty big things, and I got into the story way more. I wanted to see what Livvy would do, how she would handle the situation.

Again, I wish the story was longer! The romance was cute, but I think it could've really blossomed into something sweet if it was given the time.

Overall, I good, quick read. I finished it in about 45 minutes. If you're looking for something like that, that you can finish easily and enjoy, then this is definitely your book! 4 stars.

In My Mailbox (44)

IMM is hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren.



Books:
Haven by Kristi Cook
Supernaturally by Kiersten White
Lament by Maggie Steifvater
Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
Starcrossed by Jospehine Angelini
Fair Coin by E.C. Meyers
The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
Of Poseidon by Anna Banks
Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama
Darkness Falls by Jessica Sorensen
A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin
A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin
A Storm of Swords by same guy
A Feast of Crowns by same guy


And a KINDLE TOUCH!

{Blog Tour} Teaser Excerpt: Altered by Aubrey Coletti

Today is the first stop of the blog tour for Altered by Aubrey Coletti, organized by me. :)

Altered by Aubrey Coletti

Pages: 272
Genre: YA Thriller

When Toni, Joseph and Charlie arrive at their new boarding school, they are glad to leave their families — and respective problems — behind. Isolated as boarders, they meet a handsome senior with a personality like iced snake’s blood, teachers with a penchant for physical punishment, and four other outcasts who reveal that their being brought to the Academy wasn’t random at all. When the arrivals discover that their new school is engaged in “behavior modification” through electric shocks, isolation, restraints, and an ever-evolving set of methods to “fix” them, they declare war on their Academy. During their campaign of sabotage, they fight, hate, scorn, love, and begin to uncover the reasons why they were brought to the school. But as their war against the school escalates beyond their control, will they become the very things the Academy believes they are: dangerous, delinquent — and mad?

Altered is a pretty intense thriller, with lots of suspense and even a little paranormal thrown in! The writing style is unique, really teenager oriented, and the characters are gritty and real.

Read my review of Altered (4 stars)
Read the character interview I did with all of the main characters

And now, a teaser excerpt

Chapter Thirteen "Meet"

“But how are we supposed to meet with them if we don’t know if we can trust them?” Anton asked swiftly. They had to keep this meeting short. It had taken them a while to all get to the abandoned house safely. The Academy was watching every move now, waiting for a mistake.
“Maybe we don’t have to.”
The group turned to Ann. Toni, Melvin, Anton and Lieutenant had all seen people who seemed to be hinting that they wanted to join their mini rebellion.
“What do you mean?” Toni asked.
“What if we show them that they don’t need to meet us at all — just join and work themselves?” In response to the looks she was getting, Ann tried to explain. “You know in grassroots stuff? People there do their own thing. They’re all fighting for the same thing, but they don’t answer to anyone. What if that’s how we do it? What if we give them a sign that all you need to do to be part of us is fight against the school? That way, all of us are protected if someone gets caught. If they get caught they can’t turn us in, and if we get caught we won’t know who is helping us.”
“I get it,” Charlie said. “It’s the way a guerilla army fights. With no actual leaders, even if someone gets caught the fight goes on.”
“But what if they don’t understand that they have to act on their own?” Anton asked.
“Or get too scared of acting by themselves?” Lieutenant questioned.
“If we don’t want them feelin’ alone,” Joseph said slowly, “we should make it clear that there are other people in this wit’ ‘em. Like, that it’s a movement. Not only will that get more people, it’ll terrify Mrs. Carter and the whole Academy, so they’ll be runnin’ around tryna find the leader when there isn’t any.”
“So?” Ann said, looking at Lieutenant and Anton. “Do I pass? Is this a good idea?”
“I like it,” Anton said with his crooked grin. “Lieutenant? What’chu think?”
“I think Ann just got promoted to Captain,” Lieutenant said, clapping her hand to Ann’s and pulling their fingers apart.
Ann grinned. “But how will we get other people to know to show that they’re part of our … rebellion, or whatever it is?”
“They’ll need a symbol,” Joseph said. “And I can do that.”

The Bookarazzi: March Edition

The Bookarazzi is a monthly feature where I showcase novels that were released in a certain month. This month is, obviously, February! :) Now, I don't claim to have all of the books released in February listed, since hundreds of books are released every month, but I do have a pretty good list here.

Is you know of any releases in the coming months, please feel free to comment. :) Authors, also feel free to comment, tweet, Facebook, or even email me about your upcoming books to feature them. :)

March's releases: